Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance do I have to book my trip?
We recommend booking a year in advance. That being said the month of July books up first. Polar bear trips are also quick to fill up. If you are considering either of these options, it is better to book further out to ensure your dates. The 2009 season is almost completely booked. We do still have some openings.
- May - We have a few opening left in May
- June - The second week is open. We still have room for two people on Kenai River for several fishing trips through out the month.
- July - Always books up quick! 2010 still has some openings.
- August - One week in early August for Polar bear viewing.
- September - We have openings for Polar bear viewing the last week of September.
- 2011 is mostly open.
We do have waiting lists, in the event of a cancellation. Wait list trips can be last minute and may be offered at a discounted rate.
Contact us today to see what dates are still available or to be added to the wait list.
How do I make a reservation?
Just contact us. We'll work with you to develop your trip. Once we've finalized your trip plans we require a deposit of 1/2 the trip total. Full payment must be received 30 days prior to the start of the trip.
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand that stuff happens. However, due to the nature of our business we have to enforce a cancellation policy. For cancellations made within 45 days, we will refund 60% of the total trip cost, within 25 days we will refund 30% of the total trip cost. For cancellation made less than 24 days from the start of your trip, you forfeit your trip cost.
What do I need to bring?
Your camera, specific items on our gear list, personal clothing and depending on your trip: fishing poles, tackle, guns, bows, spending money. Since personal equipment can vary by trip, we will send you a complete gear list with your information packet when you make a reservation. We highly recommend avoiding cotton clothing, look for synthetic pieces that you can layer. Also rain gear is a must any time of year. Remember that your clothing is directly related to your comfort, especially on remote trips. If you have any questions, contact us and we will be glad to assist you.
What is provided?
We can supply everything (we've had guests show up with only "carry-on" luggage) or you can supply your own gear (we've had people ship their 18' rafts). The choice is yours. Items we often supply include: tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, backpacks, stoves, rafts, kayaks, and more. If you have your own gear which you'd like to bring, contact us for approval. We want to make sure that your gear is adequate for Alaskan conditions. We also supply food in the backcountry.
What do we eat?
We have a basic menu consisting of fresh and dehydrated meals. Any special needs will be accommodated for, as well as a more detailed option plan once a reservation is reveled. You will be responsible for purchasing your own meals while in the front country.
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Where do I fly to?
Depending on your trip you will book a flight into Anchorage or Fairbanks. We will make bush travel arrangements from there.
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What if I want a really unique trip?
We've done it all, from guiding clients in their cab over campers and providing logistical support (setting up reservations, building fires, watching camp, etc.) to 15 day remote trips where we never saw another soul until our bush plane picked us up.
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What are the dangers of camping in Alaska (bears and other animals)?
Camping in bear country carries a certain risk that we minimize by following all bear safety guidelines, including cooking in a different area than camping, storing food away from camp in bear proof containers. We provide bear spray and in some areas we use portable electric fences. We have never had a problem bear encounter. Some areas require you to view a bear safety video. We will also provide in depth training for proper bear etiquette.
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How much does a trip cost?
Every trip is different. We find it difficult to give you a rough estimate without knowing what you want to do. it's all about Location, Location, Location. We can go the economic route or spare no expense. It's up to you. that being said, you can expect a trip to run about $300 per person per day. So for a one person, 10 day trip, you're looking at around $3000, not including lodging, bush travel, food, gear rental and other incidentals. Exceptions include polar bear viewing, trips over 2 weeks, excessive group size and excessive bush travel (those plane rides can really add up).
We have two photographers/video specialists. We can arrange for one or both of these specialists to join you on your trip. There is an additional charge for this unique option. For rafting trips, we send our specialist and an assistant in their own raft. Specialists are available for Alaska Photo Hunt trips, as well as other outfitters' trips.
Tips are greatly appreciated by your guides. They work hard before, during and after your trip to ensure that gear is properly taken care of and so that you can be as comfortable as possible.
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